New York City Department of Health and Mental Hygiene

Flu Pandemic Preparedness (Follow-Up)

A flu pandemic is a worldwide epidemic that can occur when a new strain of influenza emerges that has the ability to infect and be passed between humans who would have little immunity against the virus. In audit report 2007-N-19, we examined whether the New York City Department of Health and Mental Hygiene (Department) was actively preparing for a flu pandemic. We determined the Department had developed a comprehensive plan. However, we noted that some of the Departmentís planning activities were not documented and inventory controls over face masks needed strengthening. When we followed up on these matters, we found Department officials have made progress in correcting the problems we identified.